Question:

What is the first step and the final product formed in the reaction of HBr with \( CH_3-CH(CH_3)-CH=CH_2 \)?

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Always check for carbocation rearrangement (hydride/methyl shift) in alkene additions!
Updated On: Apr 22, 2026
  • Protonation at more substituted carbon; \( CH_3-C(Br)(CH_3)-CH_2-CH_3 \)
  • Protonation at less substituted carbon; \( CH_3-CH(CH_3)-CHBr-CH_3 \)
  • Radical initiation; \( CH_3-CH(CH_3)-CH_2-CH_2Br \)
  • Protonation followed by hydride shift; \( CH_3-C(Br)(CH_3)-CH_2-CH_3 \)
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Concept: Addition of HBr to alkene follows Markovnikov's rule (in absence of peroxide). Formation of most stable carbocation occurs first.

Step 1:
Protonation of alkene.
\[ \mathrm{CH_3-CH(CH_3)-CH=CH_2 \xrightarrow{H^+}} \] \(H^+\) adds to the terminal carbon (less substituted) $\longrightarrow$ secondary carbocation forms at \(C_3\). \[ \mathrm{CH_3-CH(CH_3)-\overset{+}{C}H-CH_3} \]

Step 2:
Carbocation rearrangement.
Hydride shift from C2 to C3 occurs to form a more stable tertiary carbocation: \[ CH_3-\overset{+}{C}(CH_3)-CH_2-CH_3 \]

Step 3:
Attack of nucleophile.
\[ Br^- \text{ attacks tertiary carbocation} \]

Step 4:
Final product.
Product formed is: \[ CH_3-C(Br)(CH_3)-CH_2-CH_3 \] (2-bromo-2-methylbutane, a tertiary bromo compound)
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